Sumsang bemoans unprotected customers in Zambia

THE increase in new and second-hand smartphone sales by members of the public is putting consumers at the risk of purchasing products that are potentially defective and not protected by warranty. With global smartphone sales expected to hit the one billion mark in 2013, driven by low-cost handsets and gains in markets like Zambia, consumers will be keen to purchase phones, sometimes from unlicensed suppliers.
Samsung Electronics Zambia Country Manager, James Chona says Samsung offers unique warranties and extras to customers who purchase genuine products from authorized dealers.
“We’re seeing a shift in the market where consumers are beginning to see the value of warranties for their smartphone purchases. The smartphone has gone from being a cutting-edge device to becoming an essential component in the everyday lives of consumers. Because of this, smartphones are prone to damage and consumers do not benefit from warranties when they purchase phones from individuals or unlicensed suppliers.”  he said.
Chona adds that consumers purchasing a Genuine Samsung device enjoy the benefits of comprehensive device protection as registered devices are covered by a 24 month warranty. One such device is the Galaxy S4 which gives additional cover such as Accidental Damage from Handling (ADH). He advised consumers to ensure they are buying a genuine Samsung phone by registering for E. Warranty immediately they put a sim card in their handsets.
“ADH covers screen and liquid damage repairs to Samsung S4 devices that are damaged within the Samsung 24 month warranty period. Current sales of the S4 are priced in nearly the same range by licensed suppliers as they are with individuals but the benefit of buying genuine products is also to protect consumers from the risk of purchasing phones with a defective history,” he adds.
Samsung’s offer of ADH on its Galaxy S4 is a world first from the level of an original equipment manufacturer; the warranty includes two free repairs in the event of accidental damage to the screen of the device. The introduction of the warranty as a standard for the Galaxy S4, as part of Samsung’s commitment to providing its customers with innovative after-sales services.
Chona said Growth in smartphone sales is driven by different factors including internet banking. An example is the app recently introduced by FNB Zambia. Consumers want more than just a phone that makes calls but makes their lives easier with features that help them convert currencies, check for news updates, email or listen to radio to be careful to purchase gadgets that are backed by warranty in the event of accidental damage.

He said the ADH warranty is incorporated into the existing 24-month standard factory warranty on the Galaxy S4. Customers can register their devices through Samsung’s e-Warranty service from their phones within the first 30 days of purchase. In the event of damage, registered customers will be able to take their device to an authorized Samsung Service Centre for repairs.
He further said Service Centre will replace the screen or board free of charge. The warranty will cover only screen and liquid damages. Customers will be limited to two incidents requiring repairs within a 24-month period.

M.C.